Change of command of a unit or formation is a very important event. Sadly, in the Indian Army this function is mostly confined to the offices.
I had the pleasure of witnessing change of command of a US Army Reserve unit, in San Diego, California in 2007. Let me recount the details.
The main event of the ceremony was a ceremonial parade by the unit personnel. It was presided over by the Brigade Commander, who had come from a few hundred miles away. To witness the parade, former serving and retired Brigade Commanders, officers commanding, other officers, NCOs and men were invited. I was a special invitee, guest of a serving Colonel. A band was in attendance.
The Brigade Commander reviewed and addressed the parade. He praised the services of the out going Officer Commanding and introduced the incoming incumbent. Next, the out going and incoming Officers commanding addressed the parade and also the senior most NCO (like our Subedar Major).
During the speeches, the role played by the ladies of the Unit was highlighted too, particularly since this unit had sent sub units to Iraq and some were due to go.
The Brigade Commander and the two officers commanding went down from the podium. The Senior Most NCO took the Regimental Standard from the Honour Guard and handed it over to the out going officer commanding. He in turn handed it over to the Brigade Commander. The Brigade Commander handed over the Standard to the new Officer Commanding and he in turn handed it back to the senior most NCO. This was followed by a march past.
After the Parade refreshments were served and there was social interaction.
ABOVE ARE PICTURES OF COL ARJINDERPAL SINGH SEKHON, US ARMY (A CARDIOLOGIST) TAKING OVER COMMAND OF THE US 349TH COMBAT SUPPORT HOSPITAL ON JANUARY 21, 2007, LOS ANGELES.
Col Arjinderpal Singh Sekhon, US Army- Command Ceremony
Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh, PVSM
Signal Officer-in-Chief, 1988-91
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